Health Library

Minoxidil (By mouth)

Minoxidil (min-OX-i-dil)

Treats high blood pressure.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to minoxidil, or if you have pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.

Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.

Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Avoid also using minoxidil for hair loss (Rogaine®) while you are taking minoxidil by mouth. Using these medicine together may increase the chances of unwanted side effects.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease (especially congestive heart failure or recent heart attack), liver disease, kidney disease (or are on dialysis), or history of a stroke.

If you stop using this medicine, your blood pressure may go up. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms. Even if you feel well, do not stop using the medicine without asking your doctor.

Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Chest pain (may be related to your disease and not a side effect)

Fast heartbeat

Fever, chills, sore throat

Lightheadedness or fainting

Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet

Tightness in chest and trouble breathing

Unusual bleeding or bruising

Unusual tiredness or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Breast swelling or tenderness (in both men and women)

Change in color or growth of facial or body hair

Problems with vision

Weight gain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 3/4/2018

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